What should you do when driving near a blind pedestrian?

When driving near a blind pedestrian, the appropriate response is to slow down and be prepared to stop. This is crucial for several reasons. Blind pedestrians rely heavily on their other senses, particularly hearing, to navigate their surroundings. By slowing down, you demonstrate caution and respect for their right of way, providing them the time and opportunity to cross safely or to react if they need to pause.

Moreover, being prepared to stop ensures that if the pedestrian does move into your path unexpectedly, you will be capable of preventing an accident. This practice reflects a broader responsibility of drivers to be attentive and responsive to the needs of all road users, particularly those who may be more vulnerable.

Other options, such as speeding past, sounding your horn, or maintaining your speed, do not take into account the safety of the pedestrian and could potentially lead to dangerous situations. Speeding past could startle the individual, while sounding the horn may not provide an appropriate warning or assistance, and keeping a steady speed does not allow for the necessary reaction time to protect the pedestrian.